MultiCultural Aotearoa
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MultiCultural Aotearoa (MCA) is an anti-fascist group that was formed in 2004 in response to racist attacks in the New Zealand capital, Wellington.
Its main policies are to:
- Oppose the actions of the New Zealand National Front (NZNF)
- Oppose humiliating immigration policies
- Stop Māori-bashing
On October 23rd, 2004, the MCA led an anti-racism march from Te Papa to the steps of parliament to protest an NZNF demonstration. The NZNF had originally planned to demonstrate against Asian immigration, but after the MCA march was organised the topic was changed to support for the New Zealand flag.
Estimates of attendance at the MCA march vary widely: the national television networks estimated 300, the NZ Herald estimated 800, and the MCA itself claimed 3,000. It included anarchists and members of the International Socialist Organization, among other supporters.
Violence broke out when the "Scary Fairies" (about 30 people dressed in comical costumes and masks) taunted the NZNF and were joined by MCA marchers and bystanders. Eventually about 150-200 anti-fascists surrounded NZNF protestors. Police created a separation barrier, but ultimately lost control of the situation and fighting broke out. An NZNF member wielding a baton was arrested, as were two counter-protesters, one for carrying a knife. One NZAF member was injured.
[edit] External links
- Official website
- NZ Herald:Three arrests, police officer hurt after National Front march
- Scoop Images: Multicultural Aotearoa In Wellington Photos of march
- TVNZ:Violent clashes at anti-racism rally
- Press releases related to October 2004 march:
- March Against Racism Forces Backdown 6 October 2004
- Alliance Supports Anti-Racism March 23 October 2004
- A Backgrounder On Today's Anti-Racism March 23 October 2004
- Multicultural Aotearoa Says 3000+ Marched 26 October 2004